Accident Sequence
The aircraft was operating a regular scheduled service, flight VP210 to Belo Horizonte. After leaving the apron, the crew taxied to the runway threshold. Foggy conditions resulted in nil visibility, causing the crew to mistakenly line up on the threshold of a taxiway rather than the active runway. Unaware of the incorrect positioning, the crew received a takeoff clearance from air traffic control and commenced the takeoff procedure.
A few seconds into the takeoff roll, the captain recognized the error and initiated an emergency braking maneuver. However, the aircraft could not stop within the remaining distance. It overran the taxiway, struck an embankment, and came to rest broken in two.
Injuries and Damage
One passenger was killed in the accident, and 20 other occupants sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.
Probable Cause
According to official findings, the probable cause of the accident was the failure of the crew to recognize that they were lined up on a taxiway and not the active runway. Poor visibility due to foggy conditions was listed as a contributing factor.